February 23, (THEWILL) – The British High Commission has celebrated 191 Nigerian scholars, including 44 Chevening and 147 Commonwealth recipients, who have successfully completed their master’s, PhD, and fellowship programmes in the UK. The welcome ceremony was held on 19 February in Abuja and 20 February in Lagos, honouring the graduates of these prestigious UK Government scholarship programmes.
Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships are awarded annually to individuals who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change. These programmes have provided transformative educational opportunities for thousands of Nigerians, equipping them with advanced skills to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Speaking at the Lagos event, British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter expressed pride in the scholars’ accomplishments, emphasising the impact of their academic journey. He encouraged them to apply their knowledge and experiences to benefit their communities and Nigeria at large. Baxter urged them to challenge themselves, collaborate, and strive for excellence, affirming the UK’s commitment to fostering lasting partnerships with Nigeria through education.
Chevening Scholar Daniel Onwe, who studied International Law and Development at the University of Nottingham, described the programme as life-changing. As a disability rights activist, he highlighted how the UK’s inclusive society provided an enriching experience that reshaped his perspectives. He noted that beyond academics, engaging with diverse cultures and global politics was invaluable.
A Commonwealth Scholar who pursued International Energy Law and Policy at the University of Dundee shared how the scholarship provided a unique platform to deepen expertise in global energy issues. The experience of studying in a world-class institution and networking with peers from various backgrounds was both intellectually and culturally stimulating. Expressing gratitude, the scholar looked forward to leveraging these achievements for impactful contributions in the years ahead.
The scholars were celebrated for their exceptional academic feats and received completion certificates, marking their official induction into the Chevening and Commonwealth alumni community in Nigeria. They reflected on their academic journeys, reiterating their readiness to utilise their acquired skills in advancing Nigeria’s progress.
Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner institutions, support one-year master’s programmes for individuals with leadership potential. Since its inception in 1983, Chevening has awarded nearly 10,000 scholarships in the past five years, with over 55,000 alumni worldwide forming a robust global network. Commonwealth Scholarships, managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), have supported over 31,000 individuals since 1960, producing notable alumni, including global leaders, Nobel laureates, diplomats, and academics dedicated to driving positive change.
Nigeria boasts a strong alumni network, with over 4,500 scholars, including more than 3,000 Commonwealth and 1,500 Chevening alumni, many of whom are making significant contributions across various sectors. This growing community underscores the vital role of international education in national development, reinforcing the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the UK in shaping future leaders.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
